tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7380917556314215612019-03-17T22:47:57.326-05:00a little spinachone family's adventure in making healthful food funShelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-6983185930582712852013-02-22T22:45:00.000-06:002013-02-22T22:45:56.351-06:00Eating well on a budget<br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">For the past several years we have prioritized eating well while living within a budget.&nbsp; “How do you afford to eat well?” is a question I hear quite frequently.&nbsp; What works for us might not be a one size fits all answer, but I’m happy to share what we do here.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b>Prioritize your health.</b><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">This is not going to be a “How to Feed a Family of Four on Ten Dollars a Day” kind of a blog post.&nbsp; We all have our spots where we are willing to spend a little money.&nbsp; We are pretty frugal in most areas and eating well is a priority for us therefore we are willing to spend a little more than some.&nbsp; But, we are still living within a budget so below you’ll see how.&nbsp; <br />* I read a quote the other day that said, “<i>If you are what you eat, I don’t want to be fast, cheap, and easy</i>.”&nbsp; I like it!<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b>Plan.</b><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">We save a lot of money when I go into the store with a plan.&nbsp; When I don’t plan, I will grab random things that don’t necessarily go together to make a meal.&nbsp; By sitting with my cookbooks and writing out a grocery list, we end up using the food we buy.&nbsp; There’s nothing worse than investing in good food and throwing it in the garbage can.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b>Put in some leg work.</b><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">There are some things you can do easily at home to cut costs and still eat just as well.&nbsp; Simple things such as soaking your own beans rather than buying canned or cutting up your romaine rather than buying it precut can save you quite a bit.&nbsp; I suggest taking a little time right when you get home from the grocery store to do the next step, prep.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b>Prep.</b><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">Some people I know set a few hours aside one day a week to prep meals.&nbsp; This can be a great idea for the busy cook.&nbsp; I also think it’s a great idea to take a little time to prep right after the grocery store.&nbsp; I can only speak for myself but&nbsp;I've&nbsp;gone to the store many times with great healthy intentions and purchased a ton of produce only to find myself throwing out untouched moldy food the next week.&nbsp; BUT, when I take the time after I get home from the store to cut up a good share of the veggies, we all find ourselves gobbling them up.&nbsp; When they are ready for you to eat, you will eat them.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b>Stock up on staples.</b><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">You have to be careful at those bulk stores.&nbsp; I think when we first got our membership we went a little crazy on some items that no one needs in bulk.&nbsp; But there are things we go through a lot of in this house and I’m thankful to save money on those items when I can.&nbsp; Some of the things I grabbed in bulk today include:&nbsp; organic spinach (hello!?!), organic mixed greens, organic frozen <a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/12/spinach-smoothie-part-two-hey-its-not.html">berries</a>, and Greek yogurt.&nbsp; Some other items we like to buy include:&nbsp; oats, <a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2011/01/dear-coconut-quinoa-pilaf-i-love-you.html">quinoa</a>, and organic dairy.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b>Double batch it.</b><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">Have you ever looked through your kitchen at 5:00PM and realized there’s nothing in the house for dinner?&nbsp; And what do you do?&nbsp; Go out to eat?&nbsp; Grab something on the go that’s expensive and pretty void in nutrition?&nbsp; To avoid that last minute crunch, I like to sometimes make a double batch for dinner – we eat one and freeze one.&nbsp; It’s also a special treat when I’m able to just pull something out of the freezer like a batch of chili and I don’t need to make it on the spot.&nbsp;&nbsp;I've&nbsp;already done the work once, so why do it twice?<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b>Learn when the sales are.</b><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">I’m not a huge coupon girl.&nbsp; Yes, you can totally get a bunch of cheap “food” if you want to be an extreme couponer but most likely you’re going to find yourself buying Pop Tarts instead of green beans.&nbsp; No, thank you.&nbsp; (*Yes, I do use some coupons, but I’m selective.&nbsp; I only buy an item if it is something I would buy anyway.)&nbsp; What I do look for is when and where the sales are.&nbsp; There’s pretty much always a store in town that has great sales on their produce for the week.&nbsp; I also will walk through the aisles to see which items <u>that I would buy anyway</u> that happen to be on sale.&nbsp; I learned a while back that it’s no bargain to buy something on sale that you wouldn’t buy at regular price.&nbsp; One local store here releases an ad for the week and they switch over to the new ad on Wednesday.&nbsp; But a cool thing happens on Wednesdays, you can get the deals from both weeks.&nbsp; Yep, you’ll find me at that store most Wednesdays.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">As I write this, I realize this post could go on and on.&nbsp; There’s probably a lot more I could talk about:&nbsp; clean 15 and the dirty dozen, meatless protein options, gardening, buying in season etc.&nbsp; But I’ll stop with this.&nbsp; I believe that if you start:&nbsp; planning, putting in some leg work, prepping, using bulk wisely, make extra food to have on hand, and keep an eye on the sales – you’ll discover that you can afford to eat better on your current budget too!&nbsp; <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">What are some of your favorite ways to eat well and save money?&nbsp;&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-59604049966163255972011-07-11T16:21:00.001-05:002011-07-11T17:02:12.673-05:00Welcome to my refrigerator!<div style="text-align: center;">Welcome!</div><div style="text-align: center;">You'll notice the outside of my fridge has been beautifully decorated by two wonderful artists! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GG6AqItJbSI/Thtiayr4iaI/AAAAAAAAAUs/mRkhyFj6xD0/s1600/IMG_4929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GG6AqItJbSI/Thtiayr4iaI/AAAAAAAAAUs/mRkhyFj6xD0/s320/IMG_4929.JPG" width="195" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Meet the artists</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nW2da7zaHBU/ThtlHOq2jMI/AAAAAAAAAVU/k-Sjo_sfoxo/s1600/IMG_4830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nW2da7zaHBU/ThtlHOq2jMI/AAAAAAAAAVU/k-Sjo_sfoxo/s320/IMG_4830.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Inside my refrigerator you'll find TONS of veggies and fruit.&nbsp; You may even find "a little spinach".&nbsp; Get it?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ufnLMUp3Sn8/ThtihQajX9I/AAAAAAAAAUw/ZUzIuTMIqcs/s1600/IMG_4931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ufnLMUp3Sn8/ThtihQajX9I/AAAAAAAAAUw/ZUzIuTMIqcs/s320/IMG_4931.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2mEdhXTPMYc/ThtioI9i9aI/AAAAAAAAAU0/YjBOxI7axu4/s1600/IMG_4932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2mEdhXTPMYc/ThtioI9i9aI/AAAAAAAAAU0/YjBOxI7axu4/s320/IMG_4932.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3W-UFCAaivw/Thtjg84HeoI/AAAAAAAAAVE/UIPIOFLQpMU/s1600/IMG_4937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3W-UFCAaivw/Thtjg84HeoI/AAAAAAAAAVE/UIPIOFLQpMU/s320/IMG_4937.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;My best tip for eating well is to have healthy things on hand that are ready to grab and eat.&nbsp; You'll see that I have tons of cut up veggies.&nbsp; I also have a container of chicken meatloaf muffins.&nbsp; Yum!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KeSKmAcHBmY/Thtju7Xbl9I/AAAAAAAAAVI/IKLyzkcJhH0/s1600/IMG_4938.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KeSKmAcHBmY/Thtju7Xbl9I/AAAAAAAAAVI/IKLyzkcJhH0/s320/IMG_4938.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />I find myself making <a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2011/04/protein-pancakes.html">my favorite protein pancakes</a> most mornings for breakfast.&nbsp; Therefore, I always have plenty of liquid egg whites and cottage cheese on hand.&nbsp; Oh, and the nasty looking thing hanging out in front of the cottage cheese is actually homemade pesto and not nasty at all.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BrMm7pDjcgE/Thtj6KXztgI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/hwWIES27deA/s1600/IMG_4945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BrMm7pDjcgE/Thtj6KXztgI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/hwWIES27deA/s320/IMG_4945.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">In the picture above you'll notice half and half.&nbsp; Here's the deal on that one:&nbsp; I've tried everything else in my coffee. This is what I like.&nbsp; I figure a few tablespoons of half and half in the morning won't kill me.&nbsp; </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I love almond milk in my smoothies.&nbsp; Without a doubt,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2011/03/homemade-almond-milk-easier-than-you.html">homemade almond milk</a> is the best.&nbsp; But it's summer and I feel too busy for almond milk making right now.&nbsp; So, store bought it is. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8fHF_27T5fQ/ThtjQha741I/AAAAAAAAAU4/HEkKh0hh1pw/s1600/IMG_4933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8fHF_27T5fQ/ThtjQha741I/AAAAAAAAAU4/HEkKh0hh1pw/s320/IMG_4933.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We are not a soda drinking family.&nbsp; I love to keep some mineral water (bubble water, as my kids call it) in our refrigerator.&nbsp; Truthfully we don't go through mineral water very quickly either.&nbsp; It's a rare treat.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wHrohUUvqoE/Thtj3R_fewI/AAAAAAAAAVM/RKzbHDGNhH8/s1600/IMG_4944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wHrohUUvqoE/Thtj3R_fewI/AAAAAAAAAVM/RKzbHDGNhH8/s320/IMG_4944.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What you can't see from the pictures...</div><div style="text-align: center;">We do have some purchased salad dressing but for the most part I like to make my own.</div><div style="text-align: center;">There's ground turkey breast hiding in the back for my favorite turkey burgers.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I keep tons of Asian and Indian spices in my refrigerator so I can easily spice up a meal.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And, last but not least, I didn't clean for you.&nbsp; :)&nbsp; Maybe next time.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What is in YOUR refrigerator?</div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-77968213085848309042011-04-20T16:08:00.002-05:002011-04-20T21:27:08.195-05:00Fraud!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zP0crI8MQJk/Ta9E15PsD-I/AAAAAAAAAUM/9XTm0aijOpA/s1600/IMG_3765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zP0crI8MQJk/Ta9E15PsD-I/AAAAAAAAAUM/9XTm0aijOpA/s320/IMG_3765.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div><br /><b>Fraud.</b>&nbsp; That is the word I used to describe myself to my friend in an email last week.&nbsp; I told her that I feel like a fraud having a blog about healthy eating while my eating has taken a turn for the worse.&nbsp; I explained how hard it is to post about nutritious foods while I'm finding myself eating garbage.<br /><br />When I wrote that, I was feeling a little hard on myself.&nbsp; I really don't believe that about myself.&nbsp; I recognize that my version of unhealthy eating is still better than the average American diet.<br /><br />Over the course of the past few months, I've let more and more junk into my diet.&nbsp; I've gained five pounds and I kind of think that stinks.<br /><br />I have to say that my weight is still relatively great - a few years ago I would have loved to weigh what I currently weigh.&nbsp; In fact, my current weight is the same as what I graduated from high school weighing - and I was kinda cute back then!&nbsp; <br /><br />I've had a few things that have not been working in my favor. <br />1.&nbsp; This darn never ending winter!&nbsp; Today is April, 20th.&nbsp; I woke up to snow.&nbsp; It makes me feel blue.&nbsp; <br />2.&nbsp; Bad cycle.&nbsp; I'm down about eating lousy - so what do I do?&nbsp; Eat lousy.<br />3.&nbsp; Poor stress management.&nbsp; I've been eating my stress rather than working it off at the gym lately like usual.<br /><br />Sunday was my low point with food.&nbsp; We had some family stresses that day and my eating reflected how I was feeling.&nbsp; At one point I found myself feeling so full that I was sick to my stomach but still shoving in more snack mix and licorice nonetheless.&nbsp; I felt like a character on a mediocre made-for-tv movie about an eating disorder.&nbsp; I went to bed with a tummy ache.&nbsp; While I lied in bed, I made a decision.&nbsp; Enough was enough.&nbsp; The last few days have been much better! &nbsp; &nbsp; <br /><br /><b>My "Operation Enough is Enough" Plan:&nbsp;</b><br />Let it go.<br />Forgive myself.<br />Love myself enough to MOVE ON. <br /><br />So what if I gained five pounds?&nbsp; It's hardly the end of the world.&nbsp; The sooner I stop fixating that and start making better choices the sooner I feel like "myself" again.&nbsp; Nope, I haven't felt like myself at all while I've been making crappy choices.<br /><br />I stumbled across something I had written about weight months ago.&nbsp; I wrote it at a time when I was feeling invincible.&nbsp; I was positive that I had figured out the food thing once and for all.&nbsp;&nbsp; I never posted it because it didn't feel appropriate.&nbsp; Somehow it does today.&nbsp; Hopefully it will be helpful to you too!<br /><br /><br /><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b>A Word About Weight</b> </div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">This blog hasn't been and won't be dedicated to weight and the act of losing it.&nbsp; The reason why I am writing about this is because I'm sure that many people will stumble upon this blog in their journey to becoming a healthier weight.</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">Thankfully, I never had a huge (so subjective) amount of weight that I needed to lose.&nbsp; Although, I was once 35 lbs heavier than my current weight and many times 20 lbs or more above my current weight.&nbsp; My body doesn't handle the extra weight well.&nbsp; My blood sugar is out of whack when I'm not taking care of myself.</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">On that same note, my husband has also been heavier.&nbsp; His top weight was 40 lbs above his current weight.&nbsp; His cholesterol is screaming at him when his weight is not at a healthy number.</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">For both of us, when our weight is not at a healthy number, we require medication.&nbsp; Somewhere along the line, we decided that making poor health choices and treating the side effects with medication was not a life we were willing to live.&nbsp; Sure, if we made good choices and then needed medication, why not.&nbsp; But to treat something we had control over, did not feel acceptable to us.</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">In a quest to lose weight, we tried all of the diets out there.&nbsp; I am thankful that we are not playing the diet game anymore.&nbsp; We have moved on and would never go back to that.</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">We wouldn't go back to a lifestyle that suggest that bacon is healthier than carrots because it has fewer carbs. We won't be on diets that suggest that a chemical laden ice cream sandwich is somehow better for you than an apple with almond butter since it's lower in calories.&nbsp; </div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">Here's what works for us.&nbsp; We choose to eat for HEALTH.&nbsp; We choose to exercise for FITNESS.&nbsp; </div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">When we decided to stop worrying about the number on the scale and to start eating for HEALTH, that's when our health (and weight) changed.&nbsp; If you choose to fill your body up with foods that nourish it because you want to be in the best health possible, having a great body is just a happy side effect.</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">Don't get me wrong... I do keep an eye on my weight.&nbsp; I do that with a different lens than before.&nbsp; Now if I see the number creep up a bit:&nbsp; I know that I need to chill out on making healthier treats.&nbsp; I need to load more veggies onto my plate.&nbsp; I need to not have that glass of wine and go for a cup of tea instead.&nbsp; It's about balance.</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">May I please suggest this...</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">If you are trying to lose weight, let it go a bit.&nbsp;</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">Instead, think of changes you can make for health.</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">Make a list.</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">What is on your list?&nbsp; Maybe things like: stop drinking soda, eat smaller amounts more frequently, don't order fast food, cook more at home, try new veggies, cut back on sweets, etc.</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">Then not all at once, but rather, one at a time ~ TACKLE THAT LIST.</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;">Pick one thing to change.&nbsp; When that change becomes so automatic that you forgot that you were working on it, pick another thing to tackle.</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b>You can do it!</b><i> </i></div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-24551397833106772102011-04-01T09:09:00.000-05:002011-04-01T09:09:16.207-05:00Protein Pancakes<div style="text-align: center;"><b>This one is a winner.&nbsp; Literally.&nbsp;</b></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JxGFHmlcZ3E/TZXbCSXvSXI/AAAAAAAAAT8/rO2svx6cDyU/s1600/IMG_3694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JxGFHmlcZ3E/TZXbCSXvSXI/AAAAAAAAAT8/rO2svx6cDyU/s320/IMG_3694.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Call me goofy but I do this sometimes - we have family cook-offs.&nbsp; About a year ago I was looking for the best tasting and healthiest pancake recipe I could find.&nbsp; I looked around and found four different pancake recipes to try.&nbsp; I made them ALL and we tried them all.&nbsp; We had a unanimous winner and I'm about to share that recipe with you.<br /><br />I was shocked that this recipe was the winner.&nbsp; Believe it or not, it was by far the easiest and healthiest recipe of the bunch!<br /><br />I originally found the recipe on <a href="http://allrecipes.com/">allrecipes.com</a>.&nbsp; Thankfully I printed it off because it no longer exists on the site.&nbsp; I've looked several times.&nbsp; The original recipe credits the South Beach Diet.&nbsp; I want to give credit where it is due but unfortunately, I can't give a more specific link.<br /><br />We have changed this recipe and over the past year and have made it our own.&nbsp; So the recipe I am sharing with you is a variation on the one I once saw.&nbsp;<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vkr7aIt93ac/TZXbOMGwHmI/AAAAAAAAAUA/s_bCiE4jiWM/s1600/IMG_3705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vkr7aIt93ac/TZXbOMGwHmI/AAAAAAAAAUA/s_bCiE4jiWM/s200/IMG_3705.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">close-up of Caleb's plate</td></tr></tbody></table><b>Protein Pancake Recipe</b><br /><br />1/2 cup old-fashioned oatmeal (not instant)<br />1/4 cup low fat cottage cheese (I use 1%)<br />1/3 cup ** liquid egg whites&nbsp; <br />1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />1/4 teaspoon cinnamon<br />1/4 teaspoon nutmeg<br /><br /><i>** Be sure to use plain liquid egg whites - NOT an Egg Beater type of product that contains seasonings that would be nasty in pancakes!!</i><br /><br />Process all ingredients in a blender until smooth.<br /><br />Pour the pancake batter into a bowl and let it sit for five minutes. <br /><br />Spray a nonstick skillet with cooking spray.&nbsp; Add batter and cook over medium heat until both sides are lightly browned.<br /><br /><b>NOTES:</b><br />This is one generous serving.&nbsp; Multiply the recipe to serve the correct number of people.<br /><br />Immediately once it's blended I pour the mixture into a bowl and let it sit on the counter for about 5 minutes.&nbsp; This was not in the original recipe.&nbsp; I've tried to make the pancakes right away and they're too runny.&nbsp; I've also tried to skip the bowl and let them sit in the blender instead but because it thickens as it sits it was hard to get the batter out of the blender.<br /><br /><b>ADDITIONS: </b><br />I've blended 1/3 of a banana per serving into the batter.&nbsp; It makes a thinner pancake.<br />The kids love mini-chocolate chips!<br />Fruit is wonderful mixed in to the batter - especially blueberries.<br />Walnuts make a nice addition.<br /><br /><b>TOPPINGS:</b><br />almond butter<br />peanut butter <br />strawberries<br />blueberries<br />maple syrup<br />nutella<br />lemon curd<br /><br />As an FYI: these pancakes are much denser and heartier than a typical pancake.&nbsp; They are definitely not the fluffy floury kind of pancake.&nbsp; To me, that's a good thing.&nbsp; Those flour filled pancakes tend to give me a tummy ache.&nbsp; Not these bad boys.&nbsp; ENJOY.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8kVAGNQ6DNs/TZXb5IP617I/AAAAAAAAAUE/uqdbNumLqZs/s1600/IMG_3701.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8kVAGNQ6DNs/TZXb5IP617I/AAAAAAAAAUE/uqdbNumLqZs/s320/IMG_3701.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WYGnoRoDCt4/TZXb-hZXnfI/AAAAAAAAAUI/_zbvdDT4LoI/s1600/IMG_3696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WYGnoRoDCt4/TZXb-hZXnfI/AAAAAAAAAUI/_zbvdDT4LoI/s320/IMG_3696.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-22044634446686006422011-03-03T07:22:00.002-06:002011-03-03T08:38:52.320-06:00Homemade Almond Milk - easier than you think!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9JdXj2I5c5w/TW8Y9DdEDhI/AAAAAAAAATY/FOWKzo-nKiE/s1600/IMG_2931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9JdXj2I5c5w/TW8Y9DdEDhI/AAAAAAAAATY/FOWKzo-nKiE/s320/IMG_2931.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />I am crazy about making homemade almond milk for our family.&nbsp; It is so good.&nbsp; Once you try homemade almond milk, I just dare you to even try to enjoy the store-bought stuff again.&nbsp; I'm sorry, but this recipe will ruin that for you.<br /><br />Our entire family loves this recipe, although I must say that Caleb might be the biggest fan.&nbsp; For a while, he was telling <i>everyone </i>that he loves to drink his "mama's milk" and that his "mama's milk" is the best milk ever.&nbsp; That turned a few heads and raised a few eyebrows... hehehe! &nbsp;&nbsp; <br /><br />Most friends I talk to are convinced that making almond milk would be difficult.&nbsp; That couldn't be farther from the truth.&nbsp; It's really very simple.<br /><br />If you do a little looking around online you'll find tons of almond milk recipes.&nbsp; After playing with many, the following is what we've altered to make our own and like best.<br /><br /><b>Homemade Almond Milk</b> by <b>A Little Spinach</b><br /><br />1 cup raw almonds<br />4 cups water <br />2-3 tablespoons agave nectar<br />1 tablespoon frozen orange juice concentrate<br />1 teaspoon vanilla<br />dash sea salt<br /><br />Step 1:&nbsp; Soak raw almonds in water for 4 hours<br /><br />Step 2:&nbsp; Drain and rinse<br /><br />Step 3:&nbsp; Blend raw almonds, water (fresh water - not the soak water), agave, o.j. concentrate, vanilla, and sea salt in blender for two minutes.<br />*&nbsp; I start the blender on low and gradually turn up the speed as the almonds begin to blend.&nbsp; Once I reach a high speed setting, I set my timer for 2 minutes.<br /><br />Step 4:&nbsp; Strain<br />*&nbsp; This can be done a few different ways.&nbsp; I have nut milk bags that I purchased on Amazon.&nbsp; They are very inexpensive - about $3-4 a bag.&nbsp; They are reusable and easy to wash and take care of.&nbsp; It makes it very simple to make homemade almond milk.&nbsp; Note to crafty friends:&nbsp; I bet that you could make your own nut milk bag easily too!<br />*&nbsp; If you want to try to make almond milk but you're not sure that you're "nut milk bag" excited yet, feel free to use a colander and a cheesecloth for straining.<br />In both cases, you'll want to do a little squeezing to get all of the yummy milk into your container.&nbsp; You should just have some very dry pulp left once this step is completed.&nbsp; Ditch the pulp.<br /><br />Step 5:&nbsp; Refrigerate<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-XJAylyreQdY/TW8WzhRrwZI/AAAAAAAAAS8/duuubcQFaKQ/s1600/IMG_2899.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-XJAylyreQdY/TW8WzhRrwZI/AAAAAAAAAS8/duuubcQFaKQ/s320/IMG_2899.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">raw almonds that have been soaked, drained, and rinsed</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-IBkYuG95NuU/TW8W2kDPaZI/AAAAAAAAATA/lEFQBJEOsvg/s1600/IMG_2902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-IBkYuG95NuU/TW8W2kDPaZI/AAAAAAAAATA/lEFQBJEOsvg/s200/IMG_2902.jpg" width="178" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">nut milk bag</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MY0-LpU2Qng/TW8W40bzMVI/AAAAAAAAATE/kNyHsNsxpEc/s1600/IMG_2905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MY0-LpU2Qng/TW8W40bzMVI/AAAAAAAAATE/kNyHsNsxpEc/s320/IMG_2905.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ready to blend</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-o50-_B50HAg/TW8W7DO0B8I/AAAAAAAAATI/nbvCiCJtXC0/s1600/IMG_2910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-o50-_B50HAg/TW8W7DO0B8I/AAAAAAAAATI/nbvCiCJtXC0/s320/IMG_2910.jpg" width="198" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">while blending - starting to look like milk to me!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-HDT4xmTxb20/TW8XA7bpfAI/AAAAAAAAATM/ptL4YRth11k/s1600/IMG_2914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-HDT4xmTxb20/TW8XA7bpfAI/AAAAAAAAATM/ptL4YRth11k/s320/IMG_2914.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pouring the milk into the nut milk bag</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-O-fiRudSzXE/TW8XGZPojRI/AAAAAAAAATQ/1_L8ep-umI8/s1600/IMG_2916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-O-fiRudSzXE/TW8XGZPojRI/AAAAAAAAATQ/1_L8ep-umI8/s320/IMG_2916.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">straining into container</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-mVRRe1gOpbY/TW8XMY_IdDI/AAAAAAAAATU/s2ckNU_TWrM/s1600/IMG_2918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-mVRRe1gOpbY/TW8XMY_IdDI/AAAAAAAAATU/s2ckNU_TWrM/s320/IMG_2918.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the very dry pulp that remains</td></tr></tbody></table><b><br /></b><br /><b>MODIFICATIONS:&nbsp;</b><br />Adjust the water to suit your tastes.&nbsp; You could use as little as 3 cups if you want it very creamy or as many as five cups if you want a much lighter taste.<br />Play with the agave.&nbsp; Make it as sweet or unsweetened as you like.<br />You can use almond extract rather than vanilla if you prefer.<br />Orange juice concentrate is not necessary.&nbsp; It does not make the almond milk taste "orangey".&nbsp; As strange as this sounds, I think it really brings out the almond flavor even more.Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-11121187148237233022011-02-17T13:25:00.000-06:002011-02-17T13:25:33.536-06:00Spinach Smoothie - Part Three<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A_hlg-TTqTo/TV11am0p5UI/AAAAAAAAASw/_Kwj_ucOR2w/s1600/IMG_2886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A_hlg-TTqTo/TV11am0p5UI/AAAAAAAAASw/_Kwj_ucOR2w/s320/IMG_2886.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br />If you've been reading this blog for some time now, you already know that we love our spinach smoothies around here.&nbsp; If you've tried them, you're probably already addicted too.<br /><br />The kids love the taste.&nbsp; I love that it's a great way to get in a lot of nutrition quite effortlessly.&nbsp; <br /><br />Over time, we've all discovered our favorite spinach smoothie concoctions.&nbsp; I've shared <a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/11/we-love-our-spinach-smoothies.html">Noah's favorite smoothie recipe</a> and <a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/12/spinach-smoothie-part-two-hey-its-not.html">my spinach smoothie recipe</a>.<br /><br />Here is Caleb's.&nbsp; It has both orange juice and yogurt in it which give it a nice tang.&nbsp; Enjoy!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OTjJ1pOUiDE/TV11gIEq09I/AAAAAAAAAS0/WiKo8yI2weU/s1600/IMG_2888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OTjJ1pOUiDE/TV11gIEq09I/AAAAAAAAAS0/WiKo8yI2weU/s320/IMG_2888.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><b>Spinach Smoothie</b> by <b>Caleb </b>from <b>A Little Spinach</b><br /><br />1/2 cup of low fat vanilla yogurt *<br />1/2 cup of orange juice<br />1 giant handful of spinach<br />1 heaping tablespoon of ground flaxseed<br />3 - 4 ice cubes<br />1/3 - 1/2 of a frozen banana - optional (nice if you want it thicker)<br /><br />Blend all together.&nbsp; This makes one large glassful.<br /><br />*&nbsp; Our tip for purchasing yogurt:&nbsp; When looking for yogurt, make sure that you can read and understand all of the ingredients.&nbsp; Many yogurts are filled with some pretty funky stuff.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jC-eU1vuc7I/TV11VGnO-NI/AAAAAAAAASs/UVLv1wd9a4I/s1600/IMG_2891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jC-eU1vuc7I/TV11VGnO-NI/AAAAAAAAASs/UVLv1wd9a4I/s320/IMG_2891.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-14086637246465523762011-02-10T15:46:00.000-06:002011-02-10T15:46:29.134-06:00Hummole - Is it Hummus or is it Guacamole?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g2YNLQun2E8/TVRP3-gFZ6I/AAAAAAAAASc/qMvUlrYOLTY/s1600/IMG_2866.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g2YNLQun2E8/TVRP3-gFZ6I/AAAAAAAAASc/qMvUlrYOLTY/s200/IMG_2866.jpg" width="197" /></a></div>I got this recipe quite some time ago from the co-op where I frequently shop - Valley Natural Foods in Burnsville, MN.<br /><br />Being in line with my other favorites, it is:&nbsp; <i>fast, easy, delicious, healthy, and nutritious</i>.&nbsp; Hummole is packed with protein, fiber, and good fats. <br /><br />You may be wondering if it tastes more like hummus or guacamole. It is much closer in taste to guacamole than hummus.&nbsp; Think of it as <b>Power Guacamole</b>!&nbsp; Added fiber and protein are a benefit to this recipe over traditional guacamole.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Avocado and Chickpeas - the best of both worlds!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GlQ2HevS0HM/TVRPupxANKI/AAAAAAAAASU/Uw7hYoEn8vs/s1600/IMG_2854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GlQ2HevS0HM/TVRPupxANKI/AAAAAAAAASU/Uw7hYoEn8vs/s320/IMG_2854.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ajMhNJj02BI/TVRPswf6k0I/AAAAAAAAASQ/yEhScVUAH4c/s1600/IMG_2852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ajMhNJj02BI/TVRPswf6k0I/AAAAAAAAASQ/yEhScVUAH4c/s320/IMG_2852.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><b>Hummole</b> from <b>Valley Natural Foods</b> in Burnsville<br /><br />16 oz cooked chickpeas (if using canned, don't forget to rinse beans)<br />1 avocado<br />3/4 jalapeno<br />1 clove garlic<br />juice of one lemon<br /><br />Blend all in food processor until creamy.&nbsp; Makes a great veggie dip.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8R_b9A0-O2o/TVRP11S1DhI/AAAAAAAAASY/bbWZrt6C-5A/s1600/IMG_2863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8R_b9A0-O2o/TVRP11S1DhI/AAAAAAAAASY/bbWZrt6C-5A/s320/IMG_2863.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Could it be easier?</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />While I do love this recipe as is, feel free to change it up a bit.&nbsp; Here are a <b>few things</b> I have done to this recipe:&nbsp; add a little sea salt, switch out the lemon juice for lime juice, add a little evoo, use a little chipotle for a smokey flavor.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Caleb says, "Dig in!"</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qiGKQyDxRF8/TVRZ2jQx3dI/AAAAAAAAASo/GSpRlh9sPdw/s1600/IMG_2880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qiGKQyDxRF8/TVRZ2jQx3dI/AAAAAAAAASo/GSpRlh9sPdw/s320/IMG_2880.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-StyMKgH8Iqs/TVRP-NpbV1I/AAAAAAAAASg/wHheJICiYF8/s1600/IMG_2878.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-StyMKgH8Iqs/TVRP-NpbV1I/AAAAAAAAASg/wHheJICiYF8/s320/IMG_2878.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">What is Caleb eating in the bowl?&nbsp; <a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/12/turkey-bean-veggie-chili.html">CHILI!</a>&nbsp; Be sure to check out that <a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/12/turkey-bean-veggie-chili.html">recipe </a>too!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-54627151739515302482011-02-03T14:13:00.000-06:002011-02-03T14:13:03.369-06:00Elimination Diet completed, or is it?<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TTDx2RyjR6I/AAAAAAAAAQI/LyEORfFig5E/s1600/IMG_2653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TTDx2RyjR6I/AAAAAAAAAQI/LyEORfFig5E/s320/IMG_2653.jpg" width="213" /></a>I've been asked by many to give a quick update on the elimination diet I started at the end of December.&nbsp; <br /><br /><a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/12/i-should-probably-fill-you-in-on-this.html">Before I started this journey</a>, I was excited but also wondering how much of a difference it could really make.&nbsp; As one friend said, "You don't need this.&nbsp; You eat healthier than most already."&nbsp; Perhaps I didn't <i>need </i>it, but I was curious to see how I would feel cutting out some of the major offenders:&nbsp; gluten, dairy, sugar, caffeine (I still did tea), etc. &nbsp;&nbsp; <br /><br />Two weeks into the plan, I posted an <a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2011/01/elimination-diet-first-two-weeks.html">update on how it was going up to that point</a>.&nbsp; At that point, I was still missing coffee but otherwise feeling good.&nbsp; No, I wasn't feeling good.&nbsp; I was feeling GREAT!<br /><br />Here we are - almost a month after my last post about the elimination <strike>diet</strike> plan.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><br /><b>I've been asked a lot of questions recently... here are some: </b><br />What happened to me?<br />Did I finish the four weeks?<br />Do I have food allergies?<br />How am I eating now?<br />Did I lose weight?&nbsp; (not my goal, by the way)<br />Do you need to buy the cookbook in order to do the elimination plan?<br /><br />Let's tackle these one by one.<br /><br />This is probably why I haven't posted an update.&nbsp; I don't feel like there's much of an update to give.&nbsp; I feel so darn good without all of the junk that I just haven't added it back.&nbsp; Am I allergic or sensitive to gluten or dairy?&nbsp; No idea.&nbsp; I haven't had any since end of December.&nbsp; I figure, if I feel better without, why add it back?&nbsp; Will I someday have those things again?&nbsp; Sure - in moderation.&nbsp; Eating some of those things makes socializing easier but I could live quite happily without.&nbsp; So, technically I'm "done" with the plan since it's been more than four weeks, but I am not done in the sense that this is just my new way of life.<br /><br />How do I eat now?&nbsp; I eat a lot of veggies, fruits, gluten-free whole grains, nuts, and seeds.&nbsp; I also eat salmon about every three days and chicken once-a-week or every other week.&nbsp; I was never a big meat person before I started this so it's not much of a change. I am also buying as little prepacked processed stuff as possible.&nbsp; I have even cut way down on the "healthy" packaged items.&nbsp; I'm making more homemade items like almond milk, buckwheat cereal, etc.&nbsp; I am eating lunch as I type.&nbsp; I'm having leftover <a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2011/01/dear-coconut-quinoa-pilaf-i-love-you.html">coconut quinoa pilaf</a> and a big smoothie with:&nbsp; tons of spinach, blueberries, banana, pea protein, and ground flaxseed.<br /><br />Weight:&nbsp; Weight loss was not the goal for me.&nbsp; When I started this plan I was at my lowest adult weight already.&nbsp; A month-and-a-half later, my weight is still the same.&nbsp; That's fine by me.&nbsp; I'm not skin and bones by any means and I *could* lose a few pounds if I really wanted and tried hard.&nbsp; I'm not in that mindset now.&nbsp; I am very happy and comfortable in my own skin.&nbsp; I love that at 36-years-old, I'm in the best shape of my life.&nbsp; I love that I eat as much as I want (and I eat A LOT!) but since I'm just fueling my body with TONS of good foods, the weight works itself out.&nbsp; I would guess that I'm being asked this because people wonder if they could lose weight on this plan.&nbsp; Why wouldn't you?&nbsp; If you replace garbage with good stuff, weight comes off.&nbsp; <br /><br />The Book:&nbsp; You do not need to own the <a href="http://www.wholelifenutrition.net/id5.html">Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook</a> in order to do the <a href="http://www.wholelifenutrition.net/id16.html">elimination diet</a>.&nbsp; It's a fabulous cookbook and the elimination diet only takes up about two pages in the very back.&nbsp; You also don't need to do the plan to get a lot of great recipes and ideas from the cookbook.&nbsp; It's just a great cookbook.&nbsp; I will say this though, if you are considering doing the elimination plan owning the cookbook will make your life a lot easier because it gives some great ideas.<br /><br />For more wonderful ideas and recipes, check out <a href="http://www.nourishingmeals.com/">this blog</a> by the people who wrote the Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook and the elimination plan.<br /><br />Any other questions I should answer?Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-27532703057475788552011-02-01T06:00:00.000-06:002011-02-01T06:00:14.986-06:00My new favorite cookie! Almond Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TUdXTTcxQ_I/AAAAAAAAAR0/eczOY8gAmd8/s1600/IMG_2840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TUdXTTcxQ_I/AAAAAAAAAR0/eczOY8gAmd8/s400/IMG_2840.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />What ingredients come to your mind when you think about cookies?<br />I think of:&nbsp; white flour, white sugar, butter, and eggs.<br /><br />Obviously, eating an occasional cookie made from those ingredients isn't the end of the world, but I certainly wouldn't want to put a lot of those things in my body on a regular basis - especially the white flour and white sugar.&nbsp; <br /><br />I don't know about you, but I want to eat more than the occasional cookie.&nbsp; That's why I love having a recipe for cookies that I can enjoy and feel good about eating.<br /><br />This recipe so wonderful because it is made from natural ingredients that provide nutrients like good fats and fiber - all while fulfilling a sweet tooth.<br /><br />Another bonus to this recipe?&nbsp; Speed!&nbsp; I swear... if you try this, you'll be amazed at how much faster you can whip up a batch of these over your standby cookie recipe.&nbsp; All you really need is a food processor and a few minutes.<br /><br />Once you discover how fast, easy, and delicious these are, you may find that you want to make a double batch!&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TUdYICAc29I/AAAAAAAAAR4/hVM5MlVgivY/s1600/IMG_2850.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TUdYICAc29I/AAAAAAAAAR4/hVM5MlVgivY/s320/IMG_2850.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><b>Almond Cookies</b> from <b>Raw Food Made Easy For 1 or 2 People</b> by <b>Jennifer Cornbleet</b><br /><br />½ cup raw almonds<br />¼ cup raw walnuts<br />Dash salt<br />½ cup pitted Medjool dates<br />¼ teaspoon almond extract<br />¼ cup raisins or dried cherries (optional - I used dried cherries)<br />¼ cup ground almonds<br /><br /><i>*Sometimes in raw foods recipes, you'll see that the nuts and/or dates are soaked first.&nbsp; Nothing needs to be soaked in this recipe.</i><br /><br />Place almonds, walnuts, and salt in a food processor fitted with the S blade and process until coarsely chopped. Add the dates and almond extract and process until the mixture begins to stick together. Don’t over-process; you should still see chunks of almonds and walnuts. Add the raisins or cherries, if desired, and pulse briefly, just to mix. Remove from the food processor and place in a small mixing bowl.<br /><br />Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the almond mixture into your hand and squeeze firmly until it sticks together. Roll into a 1-inch ball and flatten slightly, to make a cookie. Repeat until you have used up all the almond mixture. Roll each cookie in the ground almonds and place on a plate. Chill at least 1 hour before serving. Stored in a sealed container, Almond Cookies will keep for up to one month in the fridge or three months in the freezer.<br /><br />Yield: 12 cookies, 4 servings<br /><br />* The recipe may say that they keep for a month in the fridge, but let me say, "No they don't!"&nbsp; You'll gobble them up long before that.<br /><br />You may be asking yourself, "Does it get the kid stamp of approval?"&nbsp; My answer is, "See for yourself!&nbsp; In other words... YES!"<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TUdZDnXgRhI/AAAAAAAAASA/2BMISm9fdEM/s1600/IMG_2812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TUdZDnXgRhI/AAAAAAAAASA/2BMISm9fdEM/s320/IMG_2812.jpg" width="166" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TUdZArKMQMI/AAAAAAAAAR8/mQNGu6ApLN4/s1600/IMG_2832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TUdZArKMQMI/AAAAAAAAAR8/mQNGu6ApLN4/s320/IMG_2832.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TUdZFqYiciI/AAAAAAAAASE/F4vhaNpmiiA/s1600/IMG_2818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TUdZFqYiciI/AAAAAAAAASE/F4vhaNpmiiA/s320/IMG_2818.jpg" width="204" /></a></div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-65524510375823380162011-01-21T18:52:00.005-06:002011-01-21T22:30:54.123-06:00Cashew Cream - This is the recipe you want!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Why is the title of this post<b> </b>"<i>this is the recipe you want</i>"?<br /><br />The title is in reference to a few special people.&nbsp; But trust me - this is the recipe that YOU want too!<br />1.&nbsp; This is for my dad who said, "You've got to blog about this!"&nbsp; When I didn't blog about it in a timely manner he emailed to ask for it.&nbsp; It is that good!<br />2.&nbsp; This is for my sweet friend, Libbie (<a href="http://www.themiddlestsister.blogspot.com/">the middlest sister</a>), whose son fell in love with it.<br />3.&nbsp; This is for my close friend and fitness partner, Leah, who like me is trying to eat the most nutrient-rich foods possible. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TTomPVSpsVI/AAAAAAAAAQs/pCQpd-ej-hU/s1600/IMG_2726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TTomPVSpsVI/AAAAAAAAAQs/pCQpd-ej-hU/s400/IMG_2726.jpg" width="272" /></a></div><br /><br /><i>This is a great fruit topping that can be used with all fruits.&nbsp; I especially like it with berries.&nbsp; My dad loved when I served it with grilled pineapple.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i><br /><br /><b>Cashew Cream</b> by <b>A Little Spinach</b> <br /><br />1 cup raw cashews<br />3-4 Medjool dates (depending on how sweet you want the topping)<br />1 T. frozen orange juice concentrate<br />approximately 1/4 cup almond milk<br />a few drops of vanilla extract<br /><br />1.&nbsp; Soak the cashews in water for one hour.&nbsp; Drain and rinse. <br />2.&nbsp; If you are using soft dates, you may skip this step.&nbsp; If your dates feel harder, soak for 10-30 min in water to soften.<br />3.&nbsp; Put cashews, dates, frozen orange juice, and vanilla in food processor.<br />4.&nbsp; Blend ingredients.<br />5.&nbsp; Add liquid to desired consistency.&nbsp; About a fourth of a cup is perfect.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZcgJVivI/AAAAAAAAAQU/94JPrhYzHR8/s1600/IMG_2684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZcgJVivI/AAAAAAAAAQU/94JPrhYzHR8/s320/IMG_2684.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Be sure to use RAW cashews.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZfPegE1I/AAAAAAAAAQY/srwumxSuZ04/s1600/IMG_2686.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZfPegE1I/AAAAAAAAAQY/srwumxSuZ04/s320/IMG_2686.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soak cashews for one hour.&nbsp; Drain and rinse.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZhh0EkUI/AAAAAAAAAQc/UsD49cWt-4s/s1600/IMG_2694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZhh0EkUI/AAAAAAAAAQc/UsD49cWt-4s/s320/IMG_2694.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medjool dates taste like caramel.&nbsp; YUM.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZi23_yxI/AAAAAAAAAQg/GOtde-jSnvU/s1600/IMG_2698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="304" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZi23_yxI/AAAAAAAAAQg/GOtde-jSnvU/s320/IMG_2698.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Be sure to remove the pit in the middle.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZkkGVibI/AAAAAAAAAQk/wtShOfLgW1I/s1600/IMG_2703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZkkGVibI/AAAAAAAAAQk/wtShOfLgW1I/s320/IMG_2703.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soak only if needed.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZmoPKeOI/AAAAAAAAAQo/K9X2I2MZOME/s1600/IMG_2711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZmoPKeOI/AAAAAAAAAQo/K9X2I2MZOME/s320/IMG_2711.jpg" width="282" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ready to blend</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZWJkxmoI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/7lRDYitlmo0/s1600/IMG_2714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="175" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZWJkxmoI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/7lRDYitlmo0/s320/IMG_2714.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">blending</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZJLUiu9I/AAAAAAAAAQM/G-yA9WnkM0g/s1600/IMG_2717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TToZJLUiu9I/AAAAAAAAAQM/G-yA9WnkM0g/s320/IMG_2717.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the finished <b>Cashew Cream</b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>THAT'S IT!&nbsp; Now tell me it's not simple.&nbsp; It is so easy!</b></div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-32982139773693354752011-01-14T19:03:00.002-06:002011-01-21T18:36:22.783-06:00SNACK ATTACK!<div style="text-align: center;">I am often asked about good <b>snack options</b>.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">Here are a few ideas.</div><div style="text-align: center;">There are MANY more things that could be added.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TTDx2RyjR6I/AAAAAAAAAQI/LyEORfFig5E/s1600/IMG_2653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TTDx2RyjR6I/AAAAAAAAAQI/LyEORfFig5E/s400/IMG_2653.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fruit - a perfect snack!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b>ALL THINGS FRUIT</b><br />apple and nut butter<br />applesauce <br />fresh fruit<br />fruit kabobs<br />dried fruit<br />dates <br /><br /><b>VEGGIE LOVERS</b><br />veggie kabobs<br />veggies and dip<br /><br /><b>FOR THE LOVE OF HUMMUS</b><br />veggies and hummus<br />tortilla with hummus and veggies<br />pita chips and hummus<br /><br /><b>DAIRY, MOO</b><br />cottage cheese<br />crackers and cheese<br />string cheese<br />yogurt (yummy with <a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/11/cinnamon-spiced-granola.html">granola</a> and fruit!)<br /><br /><b>CARBS, PLEASE</b><br />granola bars<br />healthy homemade <a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/11/apple-bran-muffins.html">muffins </a>or <a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/search/label/cookies">cookies</a><br />oatmeal bars<br />bowl of nutritious cereal<br />vitamuffins<br />popcorn<br /><br /><b>GIMME PROTEIN</b><br />edamame<br />hard boiled eggs<br />sliced meat with crackers<br />tuna – chicken – or egg salad on crackers<br /><br /><b>GOOD OL’ FAT</b><br />homemade trail mix<br />nuts<br />olives<br />rice cakes with nut butter<br />guacamole <br /><br /><b>MORE IDEAS&nbsp;</b><br /><a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/11/we-love-our-spinach-smoothies.html">smoothies </a>- of course! <br />smoothie popsicles<br />quesadilla – tortilla, beans, cheese, salsa<br />meal replacement bars&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /><br /><b>One more tip...</b><br />I often make up large batches of staples such as sweet potatoes, quinoa, cut veggies, etc.&nbsp; So if hunger strikes I can grab half of a sweet potato, a little quinoa, and some veggies.&nbsp; I like mini-meals for snacks too!<br />Of course, I am a huge fan of filling my hunger with smoothies!<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>What are your favorite snacks?&nbsp; Do tell! </i></span></b>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-2271966124719392852011-01-09T22:01:00.000-06:002011-01-09T22:01:32.806-06:00Elimination Diet - first two weeksAs you probably know, right after Christmas I started a <b><a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/12/i-should-probably-fill-you-in-on-this.html">28-day elimination diet</a></b>.&nbsp; I wish it wasn't called a "diet".&nbsp; I am really not a fan of the "D" word.&nbsp; <br /><br />An elimination diet is quite different the the diets you may be familiar with.&nbsp; The goal of this <strike>diet</strike> (let's call it a plan) is eliminating all possible food sensitivities and allergies and slowly adding them back to see how they affect you - all while nourishing your body with tons of nutritious foods.&nbsp; <br /><br />I embarked on this journey for two reasons.&nbsp;<br />1.&nbsp; I really am curious to see if anything presents itself as a sensitivity - primarily dairy and gluten.&nbsp;<br />2.&nbsp; I hadn't been eating well over the holidays and I feel SO much better when I'm eating well.&nbsp; This was like pressing the reset button for me with food. <br /><br />I have completed the first two weeks, otherwise known as Phase One and Phase Two.&nbsp; Phase One is the most restrictive and throughout the phases, foods are being added back slowly.&nbsp; Tomorrow will mark the start of Phase Three for me. <br /><br />The elimination diet begins with two days of a green smoothie fast - all of the green smoothies you want for two days.&nbsp; I used ingredients such as:&nbsp; spinach, mangoes, blueberries, raspberries, kale, flaxseed, hempseed, rice protein, and more.&nbsp; I did not feel hungry during the first two days because I was diligent about making tons of smoothies.&nbsp; The hardest thing for me was that I did miss the act of eating.&nbsp; I wanted to eat even though I wasn't hungry.&nbsp; <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TSp3gwOq1hI/AAAAAAAAAP4/ndbzJWTJrXA/s1600/IMG_2586.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TSp3gwOq1hI/AAAAAAAAAP4/ndbzJWTJrXA/s320/IMG_2586.jpg" width="207" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my first two days</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Phase One begins on Day Three.&nbsp; With that comes an approved list of foods from which to eat.&nbsp; Believe it or not, Day 3 was the hardest for me.&nbsp; Once I began eating, I wanted to eat EVERYTHING.&nbsp; Eating from the approved list only was very difficult for me.&nbsp; <br /><br /><b>Phase One Food List </b><br /><i>Do you eat a lot of these foods now?&nbsp; Have you heard of most of these foods?</i><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">brown rice, wild rice, quinoa, amaranth, teff, apples, pears, peaches, nectarines, plums, apricots, berries (except strawberries), cherries, grapes, figs (dried and fresh), mango, kale, collard greens, lettuce, spinach, dandelion greens, bok choy, cabbage, parsley, cilantro, sprouts (all types), brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, beets, carrots, parsnips, winter squash (all types), yams and sweet potatoes, avocados, onions, garlic, and ginger, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, sunflower and pumpkin seed butters, pine nuts, mung beans, adzuki beans, lentils, wakame seaweed, kombu seaweed, nori seaweed, dulse flakes, fresh herbs, coconut milk, coconut oil and olive oil, kudzu, arrowroot (be sure its GF), guar gum (in small amounts), agave nectar and maple syrup</span><br /><br />Once I got past the first three days, this has been a piece of cake!&nbsp; I keep getting asked how it's going for me.&nbsp; Truthfully, I tend to forget that I'm on some type of plan because eating from these foods has become second nature to me.&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">This was my lunch today.&nbsp; How could one complain about eating yummy food like this? </div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TSp6Snl788I/AAAAAAAAAP8/xwVLm1TytME/s1600/IMG_2639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TSp6Snl788I/AAAAAAAAAP8/xwVLm1TytME/s320/IMG_2639.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sunflower seed burger, sweet potato, sprouts, avocado</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Actually, that's not all that I had for lunch.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">We can't forget to include the yummy spinach smoothie!&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">I wake up craving green smoothies now in the way that I used to crave coffee.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">I am continuing to have at least two a day.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TSp6nsCaaLI/AAAAAAAAAQA/8fWaVvjxt-4/s1600/IMG_2634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TSp6nsCaaLI/AAAAAAAAAQA/8fWaVvjxt-4/s320/IMG_2634.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I need to tell you all something about this elimination <strike>diet</strike> plan so far.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>IT IS AMAZING, AWESOME, WONDERFUL, FABULOUS, BEYOND WORDS GREAT!!!!</b></div><br /><b>The changes I've seen in only two weeks are beyond belief.</b><br />*&nbsp; My skin better than ever.&nbsp; I wake up every single morning excited to look in the mirror because my complexion is better every morning than it was the day before.&nbsp; I have a vibrancy to my face that is phenomenal.&nbsp; <br />*&nbsp; My nails are growing like crazy too.&nbsp; I keep needing to file my nails because they are growing hard and strong and long and not breaking off like normal.&nbsp; <br />*&nbsp; My energy level has changed too.&nbsp; Before I would have more extreme highs and lows (thank you, coffee, I'm sure) and the best way that I can describe how I feel right now is a peaceful evenness.&nbsp;<br /><br />I didn't begin this journey for beauty reasons, but I'm thrilled by them.&nbsp; It just goes to show that the outside reflects the inside.&nbsp; If only eating this way would magically shave my legs for me too! <br /><br />One more perk:&nbsp; Although we don't have the kids on this plan with us (yes, US... Baard is doing it too!) they are eating so much better by default.&nbsp; Thankfully for the most part, they also really enjoy the food we're eating.&nbsp;<br />&nbsp; <br />As far as my two goals:&nbsp; <br />Pressing the reset button:&nbsp; I feel so amazing that I want to continue eating like this.<br />Food sensitivities:&nbsp; I'm just not there yet.&nbsp; That will become more evident over the next few weeks. <br /><br />The ONLY downside (in addition to missing coffee) is that most people don't eat like this.&nbsp; It's a little hard socially.&nbsp; So if you are a friend that is reading this and we're going to see one another soon, just let me bring food to share, okay?<br /><br />If you're interested in learning more, please visit <a href="http://www.wholelifenutrition.net/id16.html">the Whole Life Nutrition elimination page.</a>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-57696997179708369342011-01-03T16:06:00.003-06:002011-01-21T18:44:41.560-06:00Dear, Coconut Quinoa Pilaf. I love you.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TSJAbD3QR1I/AAAAAAAAAP0/kyIIWP1e_rg/s1600/IMG_2591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TSJAbD3QR1I/AAAAAAAAAP0/kyIIWP1e_rg/s320/IMG_2591.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />I just love quinoa (pronounced "KEEN-wah")!&nbsp; So give me a new yummy quinoa recipe to try, and I'm thrilled.&nbsp; Surprisingly, many people I've talked to have never tried quinoa.&nbsp; <br /><br />If you haven't tried it before, allow me the opportunity to rave about it a bit. <br /><br /><b>What is there to love about quinoa?</b><br />high in protein<br />good source of fiber, phosphorus, magnesium and iron<br />gluten-free <br />tastes great!&nbsp; light and fluffy texture<br /><br /><b>A few things you should know about quinoa:</b><br />It's a great alternative to couscous<br />It's prepared much like rice.<br />You must pre-rinse the quinoa!&nbsp; It will taste bitter otherwise.<br />It can be used in sweet, spicy, or savory dishes.&nbsp; Very versatile!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TSJAVQvFwAI/AAAAAAAAAPs/iT7xprStFk4/s1600/IMG_2602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TSJAVQvFwAI/AAAAAAAAAPs/iT7xprStFk4/s320/IMG_2602.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><b>Coconut Quinoa Pilaf</b> from <b>The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook</b> by Alissa Segersten and Tom Malterre <br /><br />Serves 4<br /><br />2 cups quinoa<br />1 can coconut milk<br />2 cups water<br />1 bunch green onions, sliced<br />1 medium red bell pepper, diced small <br />3 to 4 cloves garlic, crushed<br />3/4 teaspoon sea salt<br />1/2 to 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes<br />1/2 cup chopped cilantro<br /><br />1.&nbsp; Rinse the dry quinoa in a fine mesh strainer under warm water.<br /><br />2.&nbsp; Place rinsed quinoa into a medium saucepan with the coconut milk, water, green onions, red pepper, garlic, sea salt, and chili flakes.&nbsp; Cover and bring to a boil, then turn heat to a low simmer and cook for about 20 minutes.<br /><br />3.&nbsp; Remove pot from heat and let pilaf cool in pot for about 10 minutes.&nbsp; Then add chopped cilantro and gently fluff with a fork.&nbsp; Serve hot.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TSJAYAwrHjI/AAAAAAAAAPw/_53wtbtXJzo/s1600/IMG_2603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TSJAYAwrHjI/AAAAAAAAAPw/_53wtbtXJzo/s320/IMG_2603.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />People often ask me what my favorite cookbook is.&nbsp; This IS my favorite cookbook -without a doubt.&nbsp; The <b><a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/11/cinnamon-spiced-granola.html">Cinnamon Spiced Granola</a></b> recipe I posted is also from this book.&nbsp; <br /><br />I'm on Day 8 of a <b><a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/12/i-should-probably-fill-you-in-on-this.html">28-day elimination diet</a> </b>also from this book and their website.&nbsp; I had intended to write more about my journey with food but we've been very busy here lately.&nbsp; Check in soon for an update on my program.&nbsp; What I can quickly share with you is that it is going really well.&nbsp; I look forward to sharing more with you soon!Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-80928949730156045092010-12-25T20:44:00.003-06:002011-01-21T18:42:41.436-06:00proud mama momentIn this blog that is mostly dedicated to food, I need to take a moment to say how thankful I am that we have access to high quality food in abundance.&nbsp; I realize in this Christmas season, that we may not receive all of our "wants" but we are blessed to have all of our needs met.&nbsp; Not everyone is that fortunate.<br /><br />On December 23rd, Noah and I went to <a href="http://www.fmsc.org/"><b>Feed My Starving Children</b></a> with my dad to pack meals that get sent around the world.&nbsp; There happened to be a reporter there from the <a href="http://www.twincities.com/ci_16939511?IADID=Search-www.twincities.com-www.twincities.com">Pioneer Press</a>.&nbsp; Noah's picture made it into the paper.&nbsp; Call me a proud mama!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TRaqvbYpi0I/AAAAAAAAAPU/J-PJbtLDG2Y/s1600/20101224__101225DoGood3_GALLERY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TRaqvbYpi0I/AAAAAAAAAPU/J-PJbtLDG2Y/s400/20101224__101225DoGood3_GALLERY.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Merry Christmas!&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">My wish for you is that you have all of your needs met and some of your wants too!&nbsp; </div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-59948849685788104252010-12-20T21:52:00.002-06:002011-01-21T18:48:04.726-06:00Whole Life Nutrition 28-Day Elimination DietI should probably fill you in on this...<br />On December 27th, my friend and I are starting a 28-day elimination diet.&nbsp; It is geared at finding food allergies and sensitivities.&nbsp; After a somewhat sick fall, I've wondered if I am having some issues with dairy.&nbsp; My good friend is wondering if she's having some issues with gluten.&nbsp; This will be a good way to find out.&nbsp; I figure that it is a win-win.&nbsp; We will be able to pinpoint anything that might not agree with our systems.&nbsp; It will also be a great way of getting back into healthy eating again after consuming WAY TOO much Christmas junk food.&nbsp; <br /><br />I mention this because you may start to notice a trend with recipes I share beginning next week.&nbsp; Think whole grains, veggies, fruit. <br /><br />If you're at all interested in joining me in this (c'mon... it will be fun!) you can find some information&nbsp;<b><a href="http://www.wholelifenutrition.net/id16.html">here</a></b>.&nbsp; The quick explanation is that it's a 4-Phase program that starts by eliminating all possible food sensitivities and slowly adds them back over the course of a month.<br /><br />Sometimes when I look at this program, I get really excited and optimistic.&nbsp; I am looking forward to feeling my healthiest again.&nbsp; I'm also curious to see what pops up food-wise for me, if anything.&nbsp; Then there are moments (like now) when I look this over and think "Why, oh why, did I agree to do this?".&nbsp; Mostly I am leaning towards the positive though.<br /><br /><span style="color: black;">I should note:&nbsp; I know that some people can be sensitive to the word "diet".&nbsp; For me, this is not about weight loss.&nbsp; It is about health.&nbsp; I want to be sure that the food I'm eating agrees with my system and nourishes me to the fullest.&nbsp; I also want to push the "reset" button to how I'm eating.&nbsp; I am comfortable in my skin and at my weight so that's not what this is about for me.</span>&nbsp; <br /><br />Whether this is hard, fun, easy, painstaking, enlightening, whatever... I look forward to sharing my experience with you.<br /><br /><span style="color: black;">If you aren't looking for some big program but just want some amazing recipe ideas, let me suggest this <b><a href="http://www.nourishingmeals.com/">blog</a></b>&nbsp;</span><span style="color: black;">to you.&nbsp; It's done by the same people as the elimination diet.&nbsp; They are also the ones with the fabulous <b><a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/11/cinnamon-spiced-granola.html">granola</a></b> recipe.&nbsp; </span><br /><br />I can't make a post without a picture so on an unrelated note, aren't my boys cute?&nbsp; These pictures were taken in November but the boys looked exactly the same today.&nbsp; It may never stop snowing here!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TRAf_60EPZI/AAAAAAAAAPE/JAD9-Tcsjuo/s1600/IMG_1253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TRAf_60EPZI/AAAAAAAAAPE/JAD9-Tcsjuo/s320/IMG_1253.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What do the boys look like when they come inside from the snow?</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TRAgKkWYWaI/AAAAAAAAAPI/-SgVIh29RwI/s1600/IMG_1265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TRAgKkWYWaI/AAAAAAAAAPI/-SgVIh29RwI/s320/IMG_1265.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hat hair</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TRAgQ-GcCOI/AAAAAAAAAPM/C62Dq9X0NJk/s1600/IMG_1254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TRAgQ-GcCOI/AAAAAAAAAPM/C62Dq9X0NJk/s320/IMG_1254.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">rosy red cheeks</td></tr></tbody></table>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-78899638259364337082010-12-17T09:27:00.002-06:002011-01-21T18:51:05.949-06:00in the lunch boxI try to offer choices when packing Noah's lunch.&nbsp; This is what we landed on today.&nbsp; He is really excited about his lunch because it's packed with food he enjoys.&nbsp; I'm excited about his lunch because he's getting a lot nutrition.<br /><br /><b>Today's lunch is:</b> tuna salad (tuna - low sodium, a little mayo, a little mustard, pees, shredded cheese, and a little dill relish - not sweet relish which usually contains high fructose corn syrup), edamame, whole grain crackers, banana, apples, and almond butter.&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TQt9TNi03eI/AAAAAAAAAO0/phHAc1pn8ZU/s1600/IMG_2126b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TQt9TNi03eI/AAAAAAAAAO0/phHAc1pn8ZU/s320/IMG_2126b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Oops!&nbsp; I had the almond butter hiding.&nbsp; There it is.&nbsp; We are big fans of almond butter with apples.&nbsp; Noah's lunch is very mix 'n match today.&nbsp; He will probably put the tuna on his crackers but the crackers would also be great with almond butter and sliced banana too.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TQt94lqVzMI/AAAAAAAAAO4/oomC4wQmdhA/s1600/IMG_2123b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TQt94lqVzMI/AAAAAAAAAO4/oomC4wQmdhA/s320/IMG_2123b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />What did I forget?&nbsp; Yep, you guessed it.&nbsp; A treat.&nbsp; I'll stick this in the inside pocket of his lunch box.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TQt-wohYDuI/AAAAAAAAAPA/FeHf5uxkDNE/s1600/IMG_2127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TQt-wohYDuI/AAAAAAAAAPA/FeHf5uxkDNE/s320/IMG_2127.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><b>A cute Noah story from last night:</b><br />We were driving past a fast food place and Noah said, "I can't believe that I used to like to eat there.&nbsp; It's so gross.&nbsp; I think the flavor just attracts people.&nbsp; So people eat there because they like the flavor.&nbsp; But if you eat there you get so sick.&nbsp; But the flavor keeps attracting people so they just keep going more and more and more.&nbsp; I'm so glad I don't like that anymore."&nbsp; <br />Poor Noah's tummy really doesn't handle junky food well.&nbsp; Like every 8-year-old, eating junk sounds like fun but he just gets so sick to his stomach.&nbsp; It's nice that he's becoming more self-aware of that and has lost his interest in eating that poorly.<br /><b><br /></b><br /><b>What are the lunch box favorites at your house?&nbsp;</b><br />I hope the time factor isn't deterring you from packing lunches.&nbsp; As you can see by my posts, Noah's lunches are usually thrown together in less than five minutes.Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-48321276851922963382010-12-16T10:11:00.002-06:002011-01-21T18:45:02.729-06:00Spinach Smoothie - Part Two - Hey! It's not green!You already know that we love our spinach smoothies around here.&nbsp; For a link to Noah's favorite spinach smoothie, click <b><a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/11/we-love-our-spinach-smoothies.html">here</a></b>.<br /><br />This is my staple spinach smoothie.&nbsp; I love this one either first thing in the morning or post-workout.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TQo2-WsomaI/AAAAAAAAAOk/8F8T5YW9llo/s1600/IMG_2115b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TQo2-WsomaI/AAAAAAAAAOk/8F8T5YW9llo/s400/IMG_2115b.jpg" width="251" /></a></div><br />For anyone afraid of the green in Noah's smoothie, this one may be easier on the eyes.&nbsp; Although I promise that you will begin to fall in love with the beautiful green color of a spinach smoothie after you've had a few.&nbsp; This one is not green (in appearance) due to the blueberries.<br /><br />If you want to make this one for kids and prefer to not use the protein powder, skip it and substitute some yogurt if you like.&nbsp; <br /><br /><b>Spinach Smoothie</b> by <b>Shelley</b> from <b>A Little Spinach</b><br /><br />1/2 cup of frozen blueberries<br />1/2 of a banana<br />2 giant handfuls of spinach<br />3/4 - 1 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)<br />1 scoop of protein powder (I use a natural whey protein isolate)<br />1 tablespoon of healthy fat - usually I'll use flax seed oil but almond butter is fabulous if you want a little more flavor.<br />3-4 ice cubes<br /><br />Blend all ingredients except ice together.&nbsp; Once everything is blended, add ice and blend again.&nbsp; Makes one large glass plus a little refill. <br /><br />Stay tuned for other spinach smoothie ideas.&nbsp; Caleb's favorite has orange juice which is delicious and completely different from the ones that Noah and I have shared.&nbsp; <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TQo3iHl-4-I/AAAAAAAAAOs/9MlpIHP24qE/s1600/IMG_2106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TQo3iHl-4-I/AAAAAAAAAOs/9MlpIHP24qE/s320/IMG_2106.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love getting in all of these nutrients!</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TQo3baUux8I/AAAAAAAAAOo/1xqWZ6KHt0w/s1600/IMG_2112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TQo3baUux8I/AAAAAAAAAOo/1xqWZ6KHt0w/s320/IMG_2112.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to go!</td></tr></tbody></table>﻿<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TQo3kf4o8pI/AAAAAAAAAOw/6s2IlLh-Psc/s1600/IMG_2110c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TQo3kf4o8pI/AAAAAAAAAOw/6s2IlLh-Psc/s320/IMG_2110c.jpg" width="312" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Call me crazy, but I think there's something beautiful about the river of flaxseed oil on the protein.</td></tr></tbody></table>﻿<br />I loved hearing all of your spinach smoothie stories after we posted Noah's recipe.&nbsp; I hope you'll enjoy this one as well.&nbsp; <b>Cheers!</b>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-52058953902305871302010-12-06T11:25:00.002-06:002013-02-11T16:08:43.558-06:00Lunchbox Diaries<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am such a fan of our *relatively* new lunch boxes.&nbsp; I have always been a lunch packer, but this makes my job simpler.&nbsp; Although this post is really meant to be about the yummy and healthy lunch inside rather than the awesomeness of the Laptop Lunch Box.&nbsp; Perhaps, it can be about both.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TP0WqnwRGvI/AAAAAAAAANk/zeFfCSV0ayE/s1600/IMG_1888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TP0WqnwRGvI/AAAAAAAAANk/zeFfCSV0ayE/s320/IMG_1888.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Noah likes to bring his lunch to school... again.&nbsp; We had a few weeks back in October when he wanted to be a hot lunch kid.&nbsp; The way we've always done hot lunches in the past is that he brings home the menu and picks out one lunch a month.&nbsp; It's been a good compromise.&nbsp; A few months ago we had a little attitude going on and I finally threw my hands up in the air and said, "Fine".&nbsp; I sent him with lunch money and decided that I would take a little time off from my lunch packing duties.&nbsp; TWO DAYS LATER, Noah came home and said, "I don't want to eat hot lunch anymore because the food doesn't taste right and the apples taste like chemicals."&nbsp; WooHoo!&nbsp; Score one for mama.&nbsp; He hasn't wanted hot lunch since.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TP0WzKhUD-I/AAAAAAAAANo/eLEghHmQhb0/s1600/IMG_1889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TP0WzKhUD-I/AAAAAAAAANo/eLEghHmQhb0/s320/IMG_1889.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Initially when I decided to try out this new lunch box, I only bought one.&nbsp; They are expensive - significantly more expensive than any lunch box I've purchased in the past.&nbsp; After a few days of use, I knew that Noah couldn't be the only one with the box.&nbsp; So, Caleb got one too.&nbsp; This year he only eats lunch at school one day a week.&nbsp; It will come in handy in the future though.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TP0WSxohwPI/AAAAAAAAANQ/46kYNWk8CSw/s1600/IMG_1890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TP0WSxohwPI/AAAAAAAAANQ/46kYNWk8CSw/s320/IMG_1890.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Today's lunch is:&nbsp; pears, clementines, Kashi whole grain crackers, hard boiled egg on spinach (grass), red and yellow peppers, carrots, cheese stick, ranch dip, and a Kashi oatmeal cookie.&nbsp; Talk about fast and easy!&nbsp; </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TP0WYGOmZTI/AAAAAAAAANY/YeOfBcHcdgM/s1600/IMG_1882.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TP0WYGOmZTI/AAAAAAAAANY/YeOfBcHcdgM/s320/IMG_1882.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's a closer look.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TP0WeZIPUuI/AAAAAAAAANc/J-E15X9JAbA/s1600/IMG_1884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TP0WeZIPUuI/AAAAAAAAANc/J-E15X9JAbA/s320/IMG_1884.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The boys have always been huge fans of hard boiled eggs.&nbsp; But did you notice something different about these eggs?&nbsp; Noah's is shaped like a car and Caleb's is shaped like a bunny.&nbsp; If you want to read more about these fun eggs, check out a post over at <a href="http://themiddlestsister.blogspot.com/2010/01/bear-egg.html">The Middlest Sister</a>.&nbsp; Both boys requested for their eggs to be on spinach.&nbsp; Caleb wants his bunny to be on the grass and Noah thinks it's hysterical that his car is driving on the grass.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TP0WWBuXdQI/AAAAAAAAANU/uS676dw2o2I/s1600/IMG_1881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TP0WWBuXdQI/AAAAAAAAANU/uS676dw2o2I/s320/IMG_1881.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Here's what I love: </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The kids love this lunch!&nbsp; They feel like they're totally stylin'.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The lunch has protein, whole grains, healthy fat, fruit, veggies, and dairy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It took me a few minutes to pack both lunches.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This lunchbox is insulated, comes with silverware, a water bottle and a spot for it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's healthy but it's FUN.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>What are some of your kids favorite lunches?&nbsp; Tell me.&nbsp; Share. </b></div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-32228376831713196782010-12-03T10:06:00.000-06:002010-12-03T10:06:12.711-06:00Turkey-Bean-Veggie Chili<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPkPkk966hI/AAAAAAAAAM4/amP3peXKt8I/s1600/IMG_1666.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPkPkk966hI/AAAAAAAAAM4/amP3peXKt8I/s320/IMG_1666.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This is my fast and easy chili recipe.&nbsp; Occasionally I will take the time to soak beans and put forth a little more effort, but this is the chili I make when I want something that's warm, nutritious, and speedy fast.<br /><br />We've tried and played with many chili recipes until we came up with this one that everyone loves.&nbsp; I love that it's filled with veggies and beans.&nbsp; The boys love that it's filled with ground turkey breast.&nbsp;<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPkQjehdXjI/AAAAAAAAANE/bF3daxpb1K0/s1600/IMG_1627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPkQjehdXjI/AAAAAAAAANE/bF3daxpb1K0/s320/IMG_1627.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPkQm7a_MvI/AAAAAAAAANI/cv8TVIlceI8/s1600/IMG_1633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPkQm7a_MvI/AAAAAAAAANI/cv8TVIlceI8/s320/IMG_1633.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><b>A few notes about the ingredients:&nbsp; </b><br /><br />We use turkey breast rather than regular ground turkey.&nbsp; It's much lower in fat.&nbsp;<br /><br />I buy low-sodium and/or organic beans .&nbsp; If you read the sodium on the back of a regular can of beans, you'll gasp!&nbsp; No one needs that much sodium.&nbsp; Organic tends to be much lower in sodium but there are also conventional low-sodium varieties out there.&nbsp; In either case, we always rinse our beans very well.&nbsp; That does cut out some of the sodium too.<br /><br />You may be surprised to see the vegetarian baked beans in this recipe.&nbsp; It really does add a lot of flavor.&nbsp; My friend, Naomi, uses a can in her wonderful vegetarian chili.&nbsp; That is where I first got the idea.&nbsp; Do NOT rinse those beans. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPkQDrjoaNI/AAAAAAAAAM8/hobFZn1y6VI/s1600/IMG_1642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPkQDrjoaNI/AAAAAAAAAM8/hobFZn1y6VI/s320/IMG_1642.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This chili is incredibly flavorful but not very spicy.&nbsp; Baard and I add hot sauce to our bowls.&nbsp; Leaving the hot sauce out of the larger batch makes it very kid-friendly. &nbsp; <br /><br /><b>Turkey-Bean-Veggie Chili</b> from <b>A Little Spinach</b><br /><br />1.25 lbs lean ground turkey breast<br />1 cup diced onions<br />1 cup diced carrots<br />1 cup diced celery<br />1 diced green pepper<br />1 6oz can tomato paste<br />1 16oz can chickpeas - drained and rinsed<br />1 16oz can black beans - drained and rinsed<br />1 16oz can kidney bean - drained and rinsed <br />1 14.5-oz can diced southwestern style tomatoes - not drained<br />1 28oz can vegetarian baked beans <br />¾ cup frozen corn<br />3 cups low-sodium chicken or veggie broth <br />4 Tbsp chili powder<br />2 Tbsp cumin<br />¼ cup lime juice <br />1 Tbsp garlic paste<br />2 Tbsp brown sugar<br />hot sauce to taste<br />Optional toppings:&nbsp; sour cream, cheese, avocados, cilantro, lime wedges<br /><br />1.&nbsp; Cook turkey.<br />2.&nbsp; Add onions, carrots, celery, and peppers.&nbsp; Cook until tender.<br />3.&nbsp; Stir in tomato paste. <br />4.&nbsp; Add remaining ingredients.&nbsp; Stir until everything is well combined.<br />5.&nbsp; Let everything cook together.&nbsp; You can eat this chili almost immediately, but the longer it cooks at a low temp the better!<br /><br />You will notice that there is no salt in this recipe.&nbsp; Even though I buy low sodium beans and broth the sodium still adds up.&nbsp; You may add salt after making if you feel like it needs some but we never feel the need to add it.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPkQfyVx1fI/AAAAAAAAANA/c8PakITHwFE/s1600/IMG_1658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPkQfyVx1fI/AAAAAAAAANA/c8PakITHwFE/s320/IMG_1658.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fresh lime juice is best</td></tr></tbody></table>Even though Caleb has a fire shirt on, you will notice that when it's his turn to stir, the stove is off.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPkQqObE0NI/AAAAAAAAANM/-DsIKJFV6fI/s1600/IMG_1652.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPkQqObE0NI/AAAAAAAAANM/-DsIKJFV6fI/s320/IMG_1652.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-26035127405483903752010-11-30T19:01:00.001-06:002010-11-30T19:04:33.060-06:00and the WINNER is...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Today is the day to find out who wins this cute reusable shopping bag. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOnhQaPiD9I/AAAAAAAAAKs/CyW3PQkaTXc/s1600/a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOnhQaPiD9I/AAAAAAAAAKs/CyW3PQkaTXc/s320/a.jpg" width="304" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The names went into a bowl. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWZmxmcQyI/AAAAAAAAAMc/vSwMvRFHSHI/s1600/IMG_1759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWZmxmcQyI/AAAAAAAAAMc/vSwMvRFHSHI/s320/IMG_1759.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Harley wanted to pick the winner.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWZuZEWr8I/AAAAAAAAAMg/tj_DVa-m9_U/s1600/IMG_1762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWZuZEWr8I/AAAAAAAAAMg/tj_DVa-m9_U/s320/IMG_1762.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br />But I already had told the kids that they could pick.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWZ8Y3Nr_I/AAAAAAAAAMo/fnCdRDn3VlI/s1600/IMG_1764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWZ8Y3Nr_I/AAAAAAAAAMo/fnCdRDn3VlI/s320/IMG_1764.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So Harley left.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWZ0a-HlNI/AAAAAAAAAMk/HK54xh44Bpw/s1600/IMG_1763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWZ0a-HlNI/AAAAAAAAAMk/HK54xh44Bpw/s320/IMG_1763.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And the kids picked.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWaDgmpfCI/AAAAAAAAAMs/j5kqPXkDj9A/s1600/IMG_1767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWaDgmpfCI/AAAAAAAAAMs/j5kqPXkDj9A/s320/IMG_1767.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWaKpcl1vI/AAAAAAAAAMw/AM4W_BxFV10/s1600/IMG_1769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWaKpcl1vI/AAAAAAAAAMw/AM4W_BxFV10/s320/IMG_1769.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;Caleb tried to read the name.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWaQPxfwyI/AAAAAAAAAM0/oUw_RKdpUHM/s1600/IMG_1771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWaQPxfwyI/AAAAAAAAAM0/oUw_RKdpUHM/s320/IMG_1771.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br />But when he remember he couldn't read, he showed it to me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWZhKY3EpI/AAAAAAAAAMY/jwtLJh_LMY0/s1600/IMG_1774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPWZhKY3EpI/AAAAAAAAAMY/jwtLJh_LMY0/s320/IMG_1774.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Congratulations, Danielle!</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Danielle, </span><span style="font-size: small;">just send me your address and I'll stick it in the mail.&nbsp; :)</span><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Thanks again to ALL of the blog followers, email subscribers, and people that have shared my blog.&nbsp; </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have greatly appreciated your support while getting this adventure started.</span><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-4500357059237089462010-11-29T11:51:00.001-06:002011-01-21T18:41:05.354-06:00Carrot Cake Holiday Spice Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPPhtvZ7GPI/AAAAAAAAAMU/nCKA9Z2nS0Y/s1600/IMG_1740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPPhtvZ7GPI/AAAAAAAAAMU/nCKA9Z2nS0Y/s640/IMG_1740.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />Last year, I was getting my hair cut and reading Natural Health Magazine.&nbsp; I came across this cookie recipe that looked so good I asked my stylist to make a photocopy of the page for me.&nbsp; I ran out, grabbed the ingredients, and was not disappointed.&nbsp; They are fabulous.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPPhjvfyZAI/AAAAAAAAAMI/yybGIL-ctoI/s1600/IMG_1716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPPhjvfyZAI/AAAAAAAAAMI/yybGIL-ctoI/s320/IMG_1716.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />I have <b>a few tips</b> that I have discovered while making these cookies that I would like to share.<br /><br />1.&nbsp; I have had better success with 325 degrees for 18 minutes.<br />2.&nbsp; I throw the raisins and cranberries (and/or cherries) in the food processor.&nbsp; That way the flavor is distributed throughout the cookie and the kids prefer smaller pieces.<br />3.&nbsp; I also use the food processor for the carrots.&nbsp; Makes it a breeze.&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPPhgnpckSI/AAAAAAAAAME/iz-rHd3C0ys/s1600/IMG_1713.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPPhgnpckSI/AAAAAAAAAME/iz-rHd3C0ys/s320/IMG_1713.JPG" width="212" /></a></div><br /><b>Carrot Cake Holiday Spice Cookies</b> by <b>Cat Cora</b><br />from <i>Natural Health Magazine Dec 2009/Jan 2010</i><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPPhaRZLjvI/AAAAAAAAAMA/RGMa-SUncPk/s1600/IMG_1706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>makes about 70 cookies<br /><br />1/2 cup butter, softened<br />1 cup raw or date sugar<br />2 tablespoons honey or agave nectar<br />2 eggs<br />1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour<br />2 teaspoons baking powder<br />1/2 teaspoon baking soda<br />1/2 teaspoon salt<br />1 teaspoon ground cinnamon<br />1 teaspoon ground nutmeg<br />1/2 teaspoon ground cloves<br />2 cups rolled oats (not instant)<br />1/2 cup raisins<br />1/2 cup dried cranberries or dried cherries<br />1/4 cup chopped dates<br />1 cup raw carrots, grated<br />1 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted<br /><br />1.&nbsp; Preheat oven to 350. Lightly grease two cookie sheets with nonstick spray.<br /><br />2.&nbsp; In a medium mixing bowl, cream together butter, sugar and the honey or agave nectar until smooth. Add in eggs one a time until well blended.<br /><br />3.&nbsp; In a separate bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and rolled oats. In stages, mix flour into the butter mixture until both are well incorporated.<br /><br />4.&nbsp; Add in raisins, dried cranberries (or cherries) dates, carrots and walnuts and stir until all ingredients are well combined.<br /><br />5.&nbsp; Use a tablespoon to drop dough onto lightly greased cookie sheets and flatten slightly with the back of a spoon or fork.<br /><br />6.&nbsp; Bake at 350 for 25 to 30 minutes.&nbsp; * Keep an eye on them.&nbsp; This is too many minutes in my experience.<br /><br />7.&nbsp; Let cool and store in airtight container so the cookies stay soft, not crisp.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPPhaRZLjvI/AAAAAAAAAMA/RGMa-SUncPk/s1600/IMG_1706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPPhaRZLjvI/AAAAAAAAAMA/RGMa-SUncPk/s320/IMG_1706.JPG" width="212" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPPhTjd95RI/AAAAAAAAAL8/KqcKUJK5O2k/s1600/IMG_1698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPPhTjd95RI/AAAAAAAAAL8/KqcKUJK5O2k/s320/IMG_1698.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPPhqQDDLkI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/RBHmDXpmrmc/s1600/IMG_1738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TPPhqQDDLkI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/RBHmDXpmrmc/s400/IMG_1738.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: right;"></div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-27522096707730881182010-11-28T09:51:00.001-06:002011-01-21T18:40:15.363-06:00gaining independence in the kitchen<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TN6zTvJeEBI/AAAAAAAAAF4/FvWHLfVTxqI/s1600/IMG_1051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TN6zTvJeEBI/AAAAAAAAAF4/FvWHLfVTxqI/s320/IMG_1051.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast by Noah</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I love how competent, helpful, and skilled my two boys are becoming in the kitchen.<br />Caleb loves to be "Mommy's Kitchen Helper".&nbsp; It's the term that he uses when helping cook.&nbsp; Noah enjoys helping too, but sometimes he prefers to be the cook.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TN6zgAz83YI/AAAAAAAAAGA/8wTxF3BeUPw/s1600/IMG_1030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TN6zgAz83YI/AAAAAAAAAGA/8wTxF3BeUPw/s320/IMG_1030.JPG" width="211" /></a></div><br />Even though I enjoy doing the majority of the cooking, it's great to see the kids gain independence in the kitchen. &nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TN6zjFaMJyI/AAAAAAAAAGE/wADIlLxgqRU/s1600/IMG_1034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TN6zjFaMJyI/AAAAAAAAAGE/wADIlLxgqRU/s320/IMG_1034.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Today, Noah made himself breakfast.&nbsp; All he needs is someone there to chat with and keep an eye on him while using the stove.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TN6zpjhaAvI/AAAAAAAAAGI/ZsS-zpY1pTM/s1600/IMG_1035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TN6zpjhaAvI/AAAAAAAAAGI/ZsS-zpY1pTM/s320/IMG_1035.JPG" width="212" /></a></div><br />Today he made scrambled eggs with salsa and cheese, whole grain bread with peanut butter, and apple slices.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TN6zvnMsD4I/AAAAAAAAAGQ/0KYMEGDP3gI/s1600/IMG_1045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TN6zvnMsD4I/AAAAAAAAAGQ/0KYMEGDP3gI/s320/IMG_1045.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />I think we're creating great husband material, if you ask me!&nbsp; Just add a cup of coffee and it looks like a perfect breakfast in bed.<br /><br /><b>Stay Tuned:&nbsp;</b><br />Tomorrow we will be sharing one of our favorite cookie recipes. <br />Tuesday we will announce the winner of the <b><a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/11/g-i-v-e-w-y.html">giveaway</a></b>.&nbsp; There is still time to win.Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-15068546463945031502010-11-24T08:04:00.001-06:002011-01-21T18:39:04.096-06:00a little gadget we like around hereThere's nothing fancy about this.&nbsp; You may even have one at home.&nbsp; But I need to take just a moment to give a little shout out to my salad chopper.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv4bR60e0I/AAAAAAAAAK4/9JuRyhxszDA/s1600/IMG_1296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv4bR60e0I/AAAAAAAAAK4/9JuRyhxszDA/s320/IMG_1296.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Truth be told, I probably prefer non-chopped salads over chopped salads.&nbsp; What I love about the salad chopper though is that it's really the only way that my children love salads.&nbsp; They will have a little bit of a regular salad but if I make a chopped salad, they chow it down!&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv5aNI0NPI/AAAAAAAAALc/VZj8YD-84xc/s1600/IMG_1353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv5aNI0NPI/AAAAAAAAALc/VZj8YD-84xc/s320/IMG_1353.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv4VIN-xvI/AAAAAAAAAK0/irb74-Bofd8/s1600/IMG_1356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv4VIN-xvI/AAAAAAAAAK0/irb74-Bofd8/s320/IMG_1356.JPG" width="213" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Really, you can put just about anything in the salad that you would like.&nbsp; Here, I have a combination of lettuce, peppers, carrots, spinach, green onions, and apples.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv4ljbhn9I/AAAAAAAAALA/ZK-w7ZwJ3zo/s1600/IMG_1307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv4ljbhn9I/AAAAAAAAALA/ZK-w7ZwJ3zo/s320/IMG_1307.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The secret is in the apples!&nbsp; As long as I put one apple into the chopped salad, the kids will eat it and love it!&nbsp; I've tried skipping the apple before.&nbsp; It doesn't go over very well.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv4hu_3P7I/AAAAAAAAAK8/xQLLOvcIlCM/s1600/IMG_1303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv4hu_3P7I/AAAAAAAAAK8/xQLLOvcIlCM/s320/IMG_1303.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Every thing is put into the bowl (medium sized pieces to start) and then you chop away!&nbsp; When getting started, I use an up and down motion.&nbsp; Once the pieces are smaller, it's easy to roll the chopper. &nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv4ykQOBvI/AAAAAAAAALI/MZZHQD6wtFw/s1600/IMG_1319.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv4ykQOBvI/AAAAAAAAALI/MZZHQD6wtFw/s320/IMG_1319.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv45uo0C8I/AAAAAAAAALM/YCKYHXTntVM/s1600/IMG_1324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv45uo0C8I/AAAAAAAAALM/YCKYHXTntVM/s320/IMG_1324.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halfway chopped</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Another thing I like about the chopped salad is that it requires very little dressing.&nbsp; Here we used just a tinch of good balsamic and extra virgin olive oil.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv5CVQ0UFI/AAAAAAAAALQ/ihhgwdWvOP4/s1600/IMG_1333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv5CVQ0UFI/AAAAAAAAALQ/ihhgwdWvOP4/s320/IMG_1333.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Voila!&nbsp; The finished product.&nbsp; The kids love pumpkin seeds and parmesan cheese on their salads.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv5JTi7DbI/AAAAAAAAALU/sV00yE5U5fQ/s1600/IMG_1335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv5JTi7DbI/AAAAAAAAALU/sV00yE5U5fQ/s320/IMG_1335.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Baard and I love a little parmesan cheese and avocado on ours.&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv5TWenm4I/AAAAAAAAALY/OCR980MrJtE/s1600/IMG_1341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOv5TWenm4I/AAAAAAAAALY/OCR980MrJtE/s320/IMG_1341.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Don't forget!&nbsp; There's a <b>GIVEAWAY</b> on <b><a href="http://www.alittlespinach.com/2010/11/g-i-v-e-w-y.html" style="color: #274e13;">a little spinach</a></b> and on <b><a href="http://themiddlestsister.blogspot.com/2010/11/giveaway.html" style="color: #a64d79;">The Middlest Sister</a></b>.<br />I've been busy keeping track of everyone that has spread the word about my new blog.&nbsp; Thank you!&nbsp; On Tuesday, November 30, everyone that is a follower or email subscriber will be added to that list for a chance to WIN. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOnhQaPiD9I/AAAAAAAAAKs/CyW3PQkaTXc/s1600/a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOnhQaPiD9I/AAAAAAAAAKs/CyW3PQkaTXc/s200/a.jpg" width="190" /></a></div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-71532807227396355772010-11-22T06:00:00.006-06:002010-11-22T08:02:11.350-06:00G I V E A W A Y ! ! !I love using my cute reusable bags.&nbsp; My favorite bags come from Blue Q.&nbsp; They are so darn cute that people are always raving about them at the checkout.<br /><br />I purchased my first Blue Q bag from a cute little gift shop in Nisswa, MN when I was on a family vacation.&nbsp; So when I use my bags, not only do I feel like I'm trying to be eco-friendly, but it brings back memories of shopping with my mom, playing outside with the kids, and eating the world's best pizza.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOnhQaPiD9I/AAAAAAAAAKs/CyW3PQkaTXc/s1600/a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOnhQaPiD9I/AAAAAAAAAKs/CyW3PQkaTXc/s320/a.jpg" width="304" /></a></div><br />Now when I use my cute Blue Q bags, I will be thinking about YOU.&nbsp; That is because you have a chance to win this adorable bag.&nbsp; I love the produce design.&nbsp; I can only imagine the good stuff that you'll be inspired to get when you're shopping with this bag!<br /><br />This <b>GIVEAWAY</b> is my way of saying, <b>Thank You</b> for the support you've given me as I've kicked off this blog. <br /><br />There are three ways to win.<br /><br />1.&nbsp; <b>Be a follower of the blog.</b>&nbsp; At the top of my blog and also on the right-hand side, you will see where to click to follow <span style="color: #274e13;">a little spinach</span>.&nbsp; If you are a follower of the blog, I will enter your name to win.<br /><br />2.&nbsp; <b>Be an email subscriber.</b>&nbsp; On the right-hand side of my blog, you will find the email subscription box.&nbsp; Sign up to receive emails from <span style="color: #274e13;">a little spinach</span>. If you are an email subscriber, I will enter your name to win. <br /><br />3.&nbsp; <b>Spread the word.</b>&nbsp; This one is on scout's honor!&nbsp; Let me know if you've shared this blog on facebook, your blog, sent an email to friends, etc.&nbsp; Leave a comment telling me how you've spread the word about <span style="color: #274e13;">a little spinach</span>.&nbsp; If you've spread the word, I will enter your name to win.<br /><br />Drawing will be done on Tuesday, November 30th.&nbsp; The winner will be posted that day.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOnirm5Yq-I/AAAAAAAAAKw/1WISTxJRW70/s1600/IMG_1695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOnirm5Yq-I/AAAAAAAAAKw/1WISTxJRW70/s320/IMG_1695.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><b>BUT WAIT!</b>&nbsp; There's more!&nbsp; Is one giveaway not quite enough?&nbsp; If your answer is "Yes", I have good news for you!&nbsp; My sweet friend, Libbie, over at <a href="http://www.themiddlestsister.blogspot.com/">The Middlest Sister</a> is also announcing her <b>GIVEAWAY</b> right now.&nbsp; Run over there for another chance to win!&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><center><a href="http://themiddlestsister.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i855.photobucket.com/albums/ab120/libbiedoyle/BlogButton_jpeg-1.jpg" /></a></center>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738091755631421561.post-22463671660059504712010-11-19T16:50:00.006-06:002011-01-21T18:37:42.376-06:00We LOVE our spinach smoothies!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb3UwTXcFI/AAAAAAAAAJM/MJqGQoi2EzQ/s1600/IMG_1612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb3UwTXcFI/AAAAAAAAAJM/MJqGQoi2EzQ/s400/IMG_1612.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>This is a spinach smoothie household.&nbsp; We love them!&nbsp; You may think it sounds gross but don't knock it until you've tried it.<br /><br />Why do the kids like them?&nbsp; The taste is amazing.&nbsp; Actually, the spinach taste fades away and you really just taste the other ingredients.<br /><br />Watch out!&nbsp; Spinach smoothies are addictive.&nbsp; In addition to the taste, it's a great way to load up on a nutrient-dense food first thing in the morning.<br /><br />Will your family like the spinach smoothies too?&nbsp; What I can tell you is that my friends that have tried the spinach smoothies have gotten hooked.&nbsp; I've also made spinach smoothies for friends' kids and have gotten rave reviews from all of them. <br /><br />As we've been playing with making spinach smoothies, we've all stumbled across our own favorite variations.&nbsp; I will eventually share all of them with you, but here is Noah's spinach smoothie recipe.&nbsp; This version is very kid-friendly!<br /><br /><b>Spinach Smoothie</b> by <b>Noah</b> from <b>A Little Spinach</b><br /><br />1/2 cup of low fat vanilla yogurt *<br />1/2 cup of unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or milk of choice)<br />1 giant handful of spinach<br />3/4 of a frozen banana<br />1 tablespoon of peanut butter (or nut butter of choice)<br />3 ice cubes<br /><br />Blend all together.&nbsp; This makes one large glassful.<br /><br />*&nbsp; Our tip for purchasing yogurt:&nbsp; When looking for yogurt, make sure that you can read and understand all of the ingredients.&nbsp; Many yogurts are filled with some pretty funky stuff.<br /><br />Have you ever tried a spinach smoothie?&nbsp; Have your kids?&nbsp; Do you think you'll give it a shot?&nbsp; We triple dog dare you!&nbsp; <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb3ITEL6YI/AAAAAAAAAJI/_7fefLP7weo/s1600/IMG_1543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb3ITEL6YI/AAAAAAAAAJI/_7fefLP7weo/s320/IMG_1543.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">yogurt</td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb3cJcd1OI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/JRU3LnWxDw8/s1600/IMG_1558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb3cJcd1OI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/JRU3LnWxDw8/s320/IMG_1558.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">almond milk</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb3jsn3LQI/AAAAAAAAAJU/xnujEqSm4nk/s1600/IMG_1563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb3jsn3LQI/AAAAAAAAAJU/xnujEqSm4nk/s320/IMG_1563.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">spinach</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb3sicFFbI/AAAAAAAAAJY/m-nPMu3MiJI/s1600/IMG_1568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb3sicFFbI/AAAAAAAAAJY/m-nPMu3MiJI/s320/IMG_1568.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">adding the giant handful</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb352QmTWI/AAAAAAAAAJc/TezxQ6er184/s1600/IMG_1571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb352QmTWI/AAAAAAAAAJc/TezxQ6er184/s320/IMG_1571.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">grabbing bananas</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb4B3m4dKI/AAAAAAAAAJg/f0cnl2B9Yes/s1600/IMG_1577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb4B3m4dKI/AAAAAAAAAJg/f0cnl2B9Yes/s320/IMG_1577.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">bananas</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb4JQpNevI/AAAAAAAAAJk/6gRTuH3jOis/s1600/IMG_1580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb4JQpNevI/AAAAAAAAAJk/6gRTuH3jOis/s320/IMG_1580.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">peanut butter</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb4Q6i4dnI/AAAAAAAAAJo/8rQj80U2-rc/s1600/IMG_1586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb4Q6i4dnI/AAAAAAAAAJo/8rQj80U2-rc/s320/IMG_1586.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ice</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb4cto0X1I/AAAAAAAAAJw/xs2GdBX3ams/s1600/IMG_1601.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb4cto0X1I/AAAAAAAAAJw/xs2GdBX3ams/s320/IMG_1601.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">blending</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb4jwTXUoI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/JvCgiGdFwNg/s1600/IMG_1603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QNY9R19n0cU/TOb4jwTXUoI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/JvCgiGdFwNg/s320/IMG_1603.JPG" width="212" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoy!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11046029447431543760noreply@blogger.com15